Barnum, MN
Population 491 · Minnesota
About Barnum, MN
Barnum is a small community located in Minnesota with a population of 491 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $49,583 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.3 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Barnum features a median home value of $131,300, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Barnum one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $902, 22% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 263 total housing units, 57% are owner-occupied (129 units) and 43% are renter-occupied (96 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Barnum shows an unemployment rate of 10.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 23.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Barnum have an average one-way commute time of 22.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.8% of Barnum residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.2% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Barnum, MN
Compared to national averages, Barnum has a median household income of $49,583 (34% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $131,300, which is 46% below the national median. Monthly rent at $902 is 22% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Barnum's income is 33% below the state average of $74,221, and home values are 36% below the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Barnum, MN?
Barnum offers affordable housing with a median home value of $131,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $902/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,583) that falls below the national average. However, Barnum’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Barnum has a population of 491 with a median age of 45.3 years. Compare Barnum with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Barnum
What is the population of Barnum, MN?
The population of Barnum, MN is 491 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Minnesota.
What is the median household income in Barnum?
The median household income in Barnum, MN is $49,583 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Barnum?
The median home value in Barnum, MN is $131,300, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Barnum?
The median monthly rent in Barnum, MN is $902, which is 22% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Barnum?
The unemployment rate in Barnum, MN is 10.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Barnum, MN a good place to live?
Barnum offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 491 and a median age of 45.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Barnum, MN?
19.8% of residents in Barnum aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Barnum?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Barnum, MN: median home value is $131,300 (46% below national), median rent is $902/month, and median household income is $49,583. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Barnum?
The poverty rate in Barnum, MN is 23.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Barnum, MN?
Barnum's population is 0.2% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.8% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.